System and methods for managing changes to a product in a manufacturing environment including a minor model relational design

ABSTRACT

A manufacturing process management (MPM) computer device is provided. The MPM computer device is configured to store a first version of a product and a second version of the product. The second version includes the first plurality of parts, the second plurality of parts, and a third plurality of parts associated with the plug. The first location is between the first plurality of locations and the second plurality of locations. The MPM computer device is also configured to calculate a first numbering system, calculate a second numbering system for a third plurality of locations associated with the third plurality of parts, determine a first grid overlay for the first version of the product based on the first numbering system, determine a second grid overlay for the second version of the product based on the first numbering system and the second numbering system.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to managing engineering andmanufacturing changes to a product and, more specifically, to managingchanges to a product before, during, and after the product is inproduction.

As products get larger and more complicated, the difficulty to track allof the parts and processes required to manufacture these productsexponentially increases. In addition, there is potentially a largedisconnect between the engineers who design the products, the engineerswho determine how to manufacture the product, and the mechanics whomanufacture the product. These groups may each be on differentcontinents. Clear communication between these groups is vital to ensurethat the product is properly assembled. Furthermore, the larger theproduct, the more documents and paperwork that must be reviewed toensure that the product successfully transitions from the drawing boardto the final product.

Moreover, changes may be made to the product design after the producthas gone into production. For example, parts may become unavailable orrequirements may change. This is especially a problem for products thatrequire significant amounts of time to assemble, such as day, weeks, ormonths. Any changes that occur must be carefully traced throughoutdesign documents and manufacturing documents to ensure that all effectsof the change are made in the final product.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In one aspect, a manufacturing process management (MPM) computer deviceis provided. The MPM computer device includes a processor and at leastone memory device. The processor is in communication with the at leastone memory device. The MPM computer device is configured to store afirst version of a product and a second version of the product. Thesecond version extends the first version by a plug at a first location.The first version includes a first plurality of parts at a firstplurality of locations and a second plurality of parts at a secondplurality of locations. The second version includes the first pluralityof parts, the second plurality of parts, and a third plurality of partsassociated with the plug. The first location is between the firstplurality of locations and the second plurality of locations. The MPMcomputer device is also configured to calculate a first numberingsystem. Each of the first plurality of locations and the secondplurality of locations includes a location number based on the firstnumbering system. The MPM computer device is further configured tocalculate a second numbering system for a third plurality of locationsassociated with the third plurality of parts, determine a first gridoverlay for the first version of the product based on the firstnumbering system, determine a second grid overlay for the second versionof the product based on the first numbering system and the secondnumbering system, and display the second version of the product to auser including the second grid overlay.

In another aspect, a computer implemented method for displayingdifferences between versions of a product is provided. The method isimplemented using a manufacturing process management (MPM) computerdevice in communication with a memory. The method includes storing afirst version of a product and a second version of the product. Thesecond version extends the first version by a plug at a first location.The first version includes a first plurality of parts at a firstplurality of locations and a second plurality of parts at a secondplurality of locations. The second version includes the first pluralityof parts, the second plurality of parts, and a third plurality of partsassociated with the plug. The first location is between the firstplurality of locations and the second plurality of locations. The methodalso includes calculating a first numbering system. Each of the firstplurality of locations and the second plurality of locations includes alocation number based on the first numbering system. The method furtherincludes calculating a second numbering system for a third plurality oflocations associated with the third plurality of parts, determining afirst grid overlay for the first version of the product based on thefirst numbering system, determining a second grid overlay for the secondversion of the product based on the first numbering system and thesecond numbering system, and displaying the second version of theproduct to a user including the second grid overlay.

In yet another aspect, at least one non-transitory computer-readablestorage media having computer-executable instructions embodied thereonis provided. When executed by manufacturing process management computerdevice having at least one processor coupled to at least one memorydevice, the computer-executable instructions cause the processor tostore a first version of a product and a second version of the product.The second version extends the first version by a plug at a firstlocation. The first version includes a first plurality of parts at afirst plurality of locations and a second plurality of parts at a secondplurality of locations. The second version includes the first pluralityof parts, the second plurality of parts, and a third plurality of partsassociated with the plug. The first location is between the firstplurality of locations and the second plurality of locations. Thecomputer-executable instructions also cause the processor to calculate afirst numbering system. Each of the first plurality of locations and thesecond plurality of locations includes a location number based on thefirst numbering system. The computer-executable instructions furthercause the processor to calculate a second numbering system for a thirdplurality of locations associated with the third plurality of parts,determine a first grid overlay for the first version of the productbased on the first numbering system, determine a second grid overlay forthe second version of the product based on the first numbering systemand the second numbering system, and display the second version of theproduct to a user including the second grid overlay.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of a flow from an engineering document toone or more individual steps necessary to manufacture a product.

FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of an example system for managingchanges in a product in a manufacturing environment in accordance withone embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example configuration of a client computer deviceshown in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example configuration of the server system shownin FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of managingengineering requirements based on completed operations using the systemshown in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process ofpre-generating a manufacturing bill of materials using the system shownin FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of managing amanufacturing bill of materials using the system shown in FIG. 2, inaccordance with one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of using agrid overlay with multiple versions of a product using the system shownin FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a diagram of components of one or more example computingdevices that may be used in the system shown in FIG. 2

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The implementations described herein relate to systems and methods formanaging engineering and manufacturing changes to a product and, morespecifically, to managing changes to a product before, during, and afterthe product is in production. More specifically, a manufacturing processmanagement (“MPM”) computer device is configured to manage engineeringrequirements based on completed operations, pre-generate a manufacturingbill of materials, manage a manufacturing bill of materials, and use agrid overlay with multiple versions of a product.

Described herein are computer systems such as the MPM computer devicesand related computer systems. As described herein, all such computersystems include a processor and a memory. However, any processor in acomputer device referred to herein may also refer to one or moreprocessors wherein the processor may be in one computing device or aplurality of computing devices acting in parallel. Additionally, anymemory in a computer device referred to herein may also refer to one ormore memories wherein the memories may be in one computing device or aplurality of computing devices acting in parallel.

As used herein, a processor may include any programmable systemincluding systems using micro-controllers, reduced instruction setcircuits (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), logiccircuits, and any other circuit or processor capable of executing thefunctions described herein. The above examples are example only, and arethus not intended to limit in any way the definition and/or meaning ofthe term “processor.”

As used herein, the term “database” may refer to either a body of data,a relational database management system (RDBMS), or to both. As usedherein, a database may include any collection of data includinghierarchical databases, relational databases, flat file databases,object-relational databases, object oriented databases, and any otherstructured collection of records or data that is stored in a computersystem. The above examples are example only, and thus are not intendedto limit in any way the definition and/or meaning of the term database.Examples of RDBMS's include, but are not limited to including, Oracle®Database, MySQL, IBM® DB2, Microsoft® SQL Server, Sybase®, andPostgreSQL. However, any database may be used that enables the systemsand methods described herein. (Oracle is a registered trademark ofOracle Corporation, Redwood Shores, Calif.; IBM is a registeredtrademark of International Business Machines Corporation, Armonk, N.Y.;Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation, Redmond,Wash.; and Sybase is a registered trademark of Sybase, Dublin, Calif.)

In one embodiment, a computer program is provided, and the program isembodied on a computer readable medium. In an example embodiment, thesystem is executed on a single computer system, without requiring aconnection to a sever computer. In a further embodiment, the system isbeing run in a Windows® environment (Windows is a registered trademarkof Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Wash.). In yet another embodiment,the system is run on a mainframe environment and a UNIX® serverenvironment (UNIX is a registered trademark of X/Open Company Limitedlocated in Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom). The application isflexible and designed to run in various different environments withoutcompromising any major functionality. In some embodiments, the systemincludes multiple components distributed among a plurality of computingdevices. One or more components may be in the form ofcomputer-executable instructions embodied in a computer-readable medium.

As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceededwith the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding pluralelements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited.Furthermore, references to “example embodiment” or “one embodiment” ofthe present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excludingthe existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate therecited features.

As used herein, the terms “software” and “firmware” are interchangeable,and include any computer program stored in memory for execution by aprocessor, including RAM memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROMmemory, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) memory. The above memory types areexample only, and are thus not limiting as to the types of memory ormedia usable for storage of a computer program.

Furthermore, as used herein, the term “real-time” refers to at least oneof the time of occurrence of the associated events, the time ofmeasurement and collection of predetermined data, the time to processthe data, and the time of a system response to the events and theenvironment. In the embodiments described herein, these activities andevents occur substantially instantaneously.

The systems and processes are not limited to the specific embodimentsdescribed herein. In addition, components of each system and eachprocess can be practiced independent and separate from other componentsand processes described herein. Each component and process also can beused in combination with other assembly packages and processes.

FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of a flow 100 from an engineering design102 to one or more individual steps necessary to manufacture a product.In the example embodiment, engineering design 102 includes a pluralityof features 104 of the product to manufacture. These features 104 of theproduct include product definition data sets 106, geometries 108,dimensions 110, tolerances 112, and annotations 114, all of which definethe product as defined by the engineers who designed the product.Features 104 also include parts 116, which include items, parts,components, sub-assemblies, assemblies, and/or industrial products.Engineering design 102 also includes an engineering bill of materials118 (EBOM). The features 104 convert to a plurality of attributes 120such as attribute A 122. The engineering bill of materials 118 isconverted to a manufacturing bill of materials 124 (MBOM).

The features 104, attributes 120, and manufacturing bill of materials124 are converted into a manufacturing process plan 126 (MPP). MPP 126outlines the manufacturing procedures, processes, tools, equipment,techniques, and methods of production of the product as planned by themanufacturing engineering. MPP 126 further outlines exactly how to buildthe product, from the parts used and how they relate to each other, tothe processes that the mechanics and engineers use to install each ofthe parts that make up the whole. MPP 126 is an indentured, descriptive,and quantitative listing of all components, sub-assemblies, and rawmaterials that go into a parent assembly or installation. MPP 126identifies what is to be bought and/or manufactured to provide deliveryof the finished product. The manufacturing process plan 126 includesprocedures, such as procedure A 128 and procedure B 130; parts, such aspart A 132 and part B 134; processes, such as process A 136 and processB 138; tools, such as tool A 140 and tool B 142; equipment, such asequipment A 144 and equipment B 146; components, such as component A 148and component B 150; raw materials, such as raw material A 152 and rawmaterial B 154; techniques, such as technique A 156 and technique B 158;and methods, such as method A 160 and method 162.

Manufacturing process plan 126 breaks down in a plurality of operations164 including operation A 166 and operation B 168. Each operationincludes a plurality of steps 170. For example, operation A 166 includesstep 1 172 and step 2 174. And operation B 168 includes step 3 176, step4 178, and step 5 180.

Engineering bill of materials 118, also known as an EBOM, defines aproduct as designed. It is the list of items, parts, components,sub-assemblies, and assemblies in the product designed by engineering. Amanufacturing bill of materials (MBOM) 124, also referred to as themanufacturing BOM, contains all the parts and assemblies required tobuild a complete and shippable product. Unlike engineering bill ofmaterials 118, which is organized with regards to how the product isdesigned, the MBOM 124 is focused on the parts that are needed tomanufacture a product. In addition to the parts list in an EBOM 118, theMBOM 124 also includes information about how the parts relate to eachother. An MBOM 124 is not the same as “as manufactured” or “as built”.

As a part of the engineering design 102, engineering releases anengineering bill of materials 118, which lists the parts required forthe product, and the requirements for manufacturing the product. TheEBOM 118 includes the parts, such as a fastener, while the engineeringrequirements state that the fastener needs to be torqued by 60 ft. lbs.

FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of an example system 200 used formanaging changes in a product in a manufacturing environment inaccordance with one embodiment of the disclosure. In the exampleembodiment, system 200 is used for tracking changes to the manufacturingof a product, monitoring the manufacturing steps as they are performed,ensuring that the engineering requirements are met by thosemanufacturing the product, and further monitoring the manufacture of theproduct across multiple configurations, versions, revisions, and changelevels of the product, in addition to over multiple manufacturing linespotentially in multiple locations. In addition, system 200 is amanufacturing management system that includes manufacturing processmanagement (“MPM”) computer device 212 (also known as an MPM server)configured to manage changes to the manufacturing of a product. Asdescribed below in more detail, MPM server 212 is configured to manageengineering requirements based on completed operations, pre-generate amanufacturing bill of materials, manage a manufacturing bill ofmaterials, and use a grid overlay with multiple versions of a product.

In the example embodiment, client computer devices 214 are computersthat include a web browser or a software application, which enablesclient computer devices 214 to access MPM server 212 using the Internet,a local area network (LAN), or a wide area network (WAN). Morespecifically, client computer devices 214 are communicatively coupled tothe Internet through many interfaces including, but not limited to, atleast one of a network, such as the Internet, a LAN, a WAN, or anintegrated services digital network (ISDN), a dial-up-connection, adigital subscriber line (DSL), a cellular phone connection, a satelliteconnection, and a cable modem. Client computer devices 214 can be anydevice capable of accessing the Internet including, but not limited to,a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant(PDA), a cellular phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a phablet, or otherweb-based connectable equipment. In some embodiments, client computerdevices 214 are used by engineers, manufacturing engineers, mechanics,manufacturing technicians, ordering specialists, and anyone else needingto access information related to the manufacture of the product, such asshown in FIG. 1.

A database server 216 is communicatively coupled to a database 220 thatstores data. In one embodiment, database 220 includes engineeringdesigns, manufacturing process plans, engineering bills of materials,and manufacturing bills of materials. In the example embodiment,database 220 is stored remotely from MPM server 212. In someembodiments, database 220 is decentralized. In the example embodiment, aperson can access database 220 via client computer devices 214 bylogging onto MPM server 212, as described herein.

MPM server 212 is communicatively coupled with the client computerdevices 214. In some embodiments, MPM server 212 is decentralized andcomposed of a plurality of computer devices which work together asdescribed herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example configuration of a client computer device214 shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentdisclosure. User computer device 302 is operated by a user 301. Usercomputer device 302 may include, but is not limited to, client computerdevices 214 (shown in FIG. 2). User computer device 302 includes aprocessor 305 for executing instructions. In some embodiments,executable instructions are stored in a memory area 310. Processor 305may include one or more processing units (e.g., in a multi-coreconfiguration). Memory area 310 is any device allowing information suchas executable instructions and/or transaction data to be stored andretrieved. Memory area 310 may include one or more computer readablemedia.

User computer device 302 also includes at least one media outputcomponent 315 for presenting information to user 301. Media outputcomponent 315 is any component capable of conveying information to user301. In some embodiments, media output component 315 includes an outputadapter (not shown) such as a video adapter and/or an audio adapter. Anoutput adapter is operatively coupled to processor 305 and operativelycoupleable to an output device such as a display device (e.g., a cathoderay tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), light emitting diode (LED)display, or “electronic ink” display) or an audio output device (e.g., aspeaker or headphones). In some embodiments, media output component 315is configured to present a graphical user interface (e.g., a web browserand/or a client application) to user 301. A graphical user interface mayinclude, for example, an online store interface for viewing and/orpurchasing items, and/or a wallet application for managing paymentinformation. In some embodiments, user computer device 302 includes aninput device 320 for receiving input from user 301. User 301 may useinput device 320 to, without limitation, select and/or enter one or moreitems to purchase and/or a purchase request, or to access credentialinformation, and/or payment information. Input device 320 may include,for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, a mouse, a stylus, a touchsensitive panel (e.g., a touch pad or a touch screen), a gyroscope, anaccelerometer, a position detector, a biometric input device, and/or anaudio input device. A single component such as a touch screen mayfunction as both an output device of media output component 315 andinput device 320.

User computer device 302 may also include a communication interface 325,communicatively coupled to a remote device such as MPM server 212 (shownin FIG. 2). Communication interface 325 may include, for example, awired or wireless network adapter and/or a wireless data transceiver foruse with a mobile telecommunications network.

Stored in memory area 310 are, for example, computer readableinstructions for providing a user interface to user 301 via media outputcomponent 315 and, optionally, receiving and processing input from inputdevice 320. A user interface may include, among other possibilities, aweb browser and/or a client application. Web browsers enable users, suchas user 301, to display and interact with media and other informationtypically embedded on a web page or a website from MPM server 212. Aclient application allows user 301 to interact with, for example, MPMserver 212. For example, instructions may be stored by a cloud service,and the output of the execution of the instructions sent to the mediaoutput component 315.

Processor 305 executes computer-executable instructions for implementingaspects of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the processor 305 istransformed into a special purpose microprocessor by executingcomputer-executable instructions or by otherwise being programmed.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example configuration of the server system shownin FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.Server computer device 401 may include, but is not limited to, databaseserver 216 and MPM server 212 (all shown in FIG. 2). Server computerdevice 401 also includes a processor 405 for executing instructions.Instructions may be stored in a memory area 410 comprising a memorydevice. Processor 405 may include one or more processing units (e.g., ina multi-core configuration).

Processor 405 is operatively coupled to a communication interface 415such that server computer device 401 is capable of communicating with aremote device such as another server computer device 401, another MPMserver 212, or client computer devices 214 (shown in FIG. 2). Forexample, communication interface 415 may receive requests from clientcomputer devices 214 via the Internet, as illustrated in FIG. 2.

Processor 405 may also be operatively coupled to a storage device 434.Storage device 434 is any computer-operated hardware suitable forstoring and/or retrieving data, such as, but not limited to, dataassociated with database 220 (shown in FIG. 2). In some embodiments,storage device 434 is integrated in server computer device 401. Forexample, server computer device 401 may include one or more hard diskdrives as storage device 434. In other embodiments, storage device 434is external to server computer device 401 and may be accessed by aplurality of server computer devices 401. For example, storage device434 may include a storage area network (SAN), a network attached storage(NAS) system, and/or multiple storage units such as hard disks and/orsolid state disks in a redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID)configuration.

In some embodiments, processor 405 is operatively coupled to storagedevice 434 via a storage interface 420. Storage interface 420 is anycomponent capable of providing processor 405 with access to storagedevice 434. Storage interface 420 may include, for example, an AdvancedTechnology Attachment (ATA) adapter, a Serial ATA (SATA) adapter, aSmall Computer System Interface (SCSI) adapter, a RAID controller, a SANadapter, a network adapter, and/or any component providing processor 405with access to storage device 434.

Processor 405 executes computer-executable instructions for implementingaspects of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the processor 405 istransformed into a special purpose microprocessor by executingcomputer-executable instructions or by otherwise being programmed. Forexample, the processor 405 is programmed with the instruction such asillustrated in FIGS. 5-8.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 500 ofmanaging engineering requirements based on completed operations usingsystem 200 shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of thedisclosure. Process 500 may be implemented by a computing device, forexample MPM server 212 (shown in FIG. 2).

In the example embodiment, MPM server 212 receives 505 a firstengineering design 102 (shown in FIG. 1) for a first configuration of aproduct to be assembled including an engineering bill of materials 118(shown in FIG. 1) and a plurality of requirements. MPM server 212receives 510 a first manufacturing process plan 124 (shown in FIG. 1)for the first configuration of the product including a plurality ofoperations 164 (shown in FIG. 1). MPM server 212 compares 515 pluralityof operations 164 with the plurality of requirements to determinewhether each requirement of the plurality of requirements is met by atleast one of the plurality of operations 164. MPM server 212 associates520 each requirement with one or more of the plurality of operations 164based on the comparison. MPM server 212 receives 525, from a user 301(shown in FIG. 3), a notification indicating that a first operation 166(shown in FIG. 1) is complete. Then MPM server 212 stores 530 anindication that one or more requirements associated with first operation166 are complete.

In some embodiments, the engineering design 102 includes acceptablesubstitutes for parts. For example, engineering design 102 states thateither part A or substitute part B could be used. MPM server 212 tracksboth of the parts and ensures that one of them is installed. If thesubstitute part is installed, then MPM server 212 marks that therequirement associated with part A has been completed. In addition, onceeither part A or substitute part B is installed, MPM server 212 marksthe part as installed and prevents the installation of both parts. Inthese embodiments, MPM server 212 receives a user input indicating thatthe substitute part was installed at the first location and stores anindication that the first part was installed. In some furtherembodiments, the substitute part is selected by the user 301 whileapproving or generating the MPP 126. In these embodiments, only thesubstitute part is installed.

While the intent of flow 100 is the assembly of a product, in someembodiments it may be necessary to remove one or more parts. In theseembodiments, MPM server 212 stores a disassembly plan for each part andinstallation. When a part is installed, MPM server 212 marks the part asinstalled and when all of the parts are installed MPM server 212 marksthe product as complete. However, if a part is removed, then MPM server212 marks the part as removed to ensure that the product is notconsidered complete. In these embodiments, MPM server 212 receives, fromthe user 301, a first indication that a first part 132 (shown in FIG. 1)was installed and stores the first indication. MPM server 212 marks theproduct as complete based on the first indication and the firstmanufacturing process plan 126. MPM server 212 receives, from the user301, a second indication that the first part 132 was removed and storesthe second indication. MPM server 212 marks the product as incompletebased on the second indication.

In some embodiments, the process of approving and/or generating the MPP126 is a lengthy process that requires every item to be approved beforecompletion. However, many times progress may be lost on the approvalprocess and have to be repeated. MPM server 212 saves the progress onthe MPP 126 repeatedly throughout the approval process. Furthermore, MPMserver 212 provides an amount and a list of those parts that still needapproval to the user 301. In these embodiments, MPM server 212 displays,to the user 301, a plurality of parts 116 (shown in FIG. 1) associatedwith the first engineering design 102. MPM server 212 receives, from theuser 301, an approval of one or more parts of the plurality of parts116. MPM server 212 generates the first manufacturing process plan 126based on the one or more approved parts. MPM server 212 also receives,from the user 301, a second approval of one or more additional parts ofthe plurality of parts 116 and updates the first manufacturing processplan 126 to include the one or more additional parts. MPM server 212determines a remaining plurality of parts based on the plurality ofparts 116 and the one or more approved parts. MPM server 212 determinesa number of remaining parts to be approved and displays the determinednumber and a list of the remaining plurality of parts.

In some embodiments, MPM server 212 assigns a relationship between afirst part in the EBOM 118 and a second part in the MBOM 124. Theserelationships include, but are not limited to, issue, remove, rework,restructure, and reference. An issue relationship is where part isissued to the product to be installed. A remove relationship is wherethe second part is to be removed from the product. A rework relationshipis where the part is assigned to the MBOM 124 but not issued. Forexample, Part A 132 is reworked to a new part number, Part B 134, whereadditional holes are drilled into Part A 132 to create Part B 134. Arestructure relationship is where the part is changed or restructuredbetween the EBOM 118 and the MBOM 124. A reference relationship is wherethe first part and the second part reference each other, such as with apart and the glue that attached the part.

In some embodiments, some items are not listed in the bill of materials,for example a sealant used on a part or the 60 ft. lbs. of torque. Theserequirements are listed in the engineering requirements and the MPMserver 212 associates these requirements with the associated parts toensure that the workers are performed and that these requirements aremet. In these embodiments, MPM server 212 determines at least one partof the plurality of parts 116 associated with a requirement of theplurality of requirements. MPM server 212 adds an item to the firstmanufacturing process plan 126 associated with the at least one part toindicate the determined requirement and displays the determinedrequirement to the user 301 prior to the user installing the part.

In some embodiments, the user desires an accountability check to beperformed on the documents in flow 100 on demand. In these embodiments,MPM server 212 receives an accountability check request from the user.MPM server 212 compares the engineering bill of materials 118 with amanufacturing bill of materials 124 for the first configuration. MPMserver 212 generate a report based on the comparison and provides thereport to the user 301.

In some embodiments, it is desirable to ensure that the manufacturingengineer approving the parts in the MPP 126 approves all of the parts inan installation before approving the MPP 126. In these embodiments, aninstallation is included in the EBOM 118, where the installationincludes a plurality of parts. An installation being a non-physicalcollection of parts, such as an entertainment system in an aircraft. MPMserver 212 receives, from the user 301, assignment of one or more of theplurality of parts. MPM server 212 receives, from the user 301, arequest to approve the installation. MPM server 212 determines whetherall of the plurality of parts are assigned. And if the determination isthat at least one of the plurality of parts is not assigned, MPM server212 prevents the user 301 from approving the installation and approvingthe MPP 126.

In some embodiments, a plurality of parts may be restructured betweenengineering and manufacturing. For example, parts A, B, and C may berestructured into Part D, where Part D is an assembly of parts A-C. Itmay be more cost-effective to buy parts A-C already assembled into partD. In these embodiments, MPM server 212 tracks the relationship betweenparts A-C and part D. So that when part D is installed, MPM server 212marks parts A-C as installed. In these embodiments, MPM server 212receives, from the user 301, a restructured part comprising a pluralityof parts. MPM server 212 associates the restructured part in the firstmanufacturing process plan 126 with the plurality of parts in theengineering design 102.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 600 ofpre-generating a manufacturing bill of materials 124 using system 200shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure.Process 600 may be implemented by a computing device, for example MPMserver 212 (shown in FIG. 2).

In the example embodiment, MPM server 212 receives 605 a firstengineering design 102 (shown in FIG. 1) for a first configuration of aproduct to be assembled including a plurality of features 104 (shown inFIG. 1). MPM server 212 determines 610 a plurality of parts 116 (shownin FIG. 1) associated with plurality of features 104 based on thereceived engineering design 102. MPM server 212 generates 615 amanufacturing bill of materials 124 based on the determined plurality ofparts 116 prior to the completion of a manufacturing process plan 126(shown in FIG. 1). By generating 615 MBOM 124 prior to the completion ofMPP 126, MPM server 212 reduces the inherent delay in manufacturingcaused by not knowing the MBOM 124 prior to completion of MPP 126,allowing for scheduling and planning to begin earlier.

In some embodiments, a change will be made to engineering design 102after MPP 126 has been generated. In these embodiments, MPM server 212receives the updated engineering design 102. MPM server 212 determinesone or more differences between the original engineering design 102 andthe updated engineering design 102. In some further embodiments, thisupdated engineering design 102 is for a different configuration of theproduct. MPM server 212 updates the features 104 associated with theengineering design 102 based on the change. MPM server 212 updates theattributes 120 based on the changes to the features 104. MPM server 212continues the changes through to update the MPP 126. MPM server 212generates a second MPP 126 that contains only the attributes of the MPP126 that did not change as a result of the engineering design 102. MPMserver 212 also maintains the MPP 126 for the original configuration ofthe engineering design 102. MPM server 212 highlights the changes to theMPP 126 so that the changes may be reviewed by a manufacturing engineer,rather than having to review the parts of the MPP 126 that did notchange.

When MPM server 212 receives a change to one of the attributes 104associated with an engineering design 102, MPM server 212 determines oneor more processes, such as process A 136 that are associated with thechanged attribute 120. MPM server 212 determines an update to the one ormore processes based on the change in the attribute 120. MPM server 212modifies the MPP 126 based on the determined update. For example, if atolerance 112 (shown in FIG. 1) changes, then MPM server 212 updates anyprocess that is associated with that tolerance 112.

In some embodiments, MPM server 212 stores data for manufacturingmultiple configurations of a product. For example, in an aircraftproduct, each configuration could be based on a different enginehook-up. Rather than storing each configuration as a separate MPP 126,MPM server 212 stores all of the common data in one MPP 126 and thenstores all of the differences associated with each individualconfiguration on its own. When manufacturing configuration A, MPM server212 retrieves the configuration A data and the common MPP 126, combinesthe configuration A data and the common MPP 126, and provides thecombination to the user 301. In some embodiments, MPM server 212generates the common data and the configuration data from MPPs 126associated with two or three configurations. In other embodiments, MPMserver 212 stores an MPP 126 associated with a first configuration. Whenthe MPM server 212 receives an engineering design 102 for a secondconfiguration, MPM server 212 determines the common features and thedifferences to store separately. In still other embodiments, the commonfeatures and the differences are indicated by the user 301.

In some embodiments, the product will be made in multiple locations ondifferent manufacturing line. Each manufacturing line may havedifferences in how the line will assemble the product. MPM server 212receives a first plurality of data based on a first production line anda second plurality of data based on a second production line. In theseembodiments, each production line is configured to assemble the firstconfiguration of the product. MPM server 212 generates a firstmanufacturing process plan 126 based on the first plurality of data andthe first engineering design 102. Then MPM server 212 modifies the firstmanufacturing process plan 126 to generate a second manufacturingprocess plan 126 based on the second plurality of data. This secondmanufacturing process plan 126 integrates the differences that thesecond production line will introduce into the manufacturing process.

In some embodiments, a product may include a plurality of installations.Installations are a non-physical collection of parts, for example theentertainment system on an aircraft. In these embodiments, theengineering design 102 includes a plurality of installations. MPM server212 stores a first manufacturing process plan 126 for the firstconfiguration. The first manufacturing process plan 126 includes aplurality of processes, such as process A 136, associated with theplurality of installations. MPM server 212 receives a change to oneinstallation of the plurality of installations. MPM server 212determines one or more processes 136 of the plurality of processesassociated with the one installation. MPM server 212 determines anupdate to the one or more processes 136 based on the received change.MPM server 212 modifies the first manufacturing process plan 126 basedon the determined update.

In some embodiments, a change to a part is automatically updated throughall of the flow 100 (shown in FIG. 1). Other changes to a part arerequired to be reviewed and approved by a user 301, such as amanufacturing engineer. In some of these embodiments, the threshold iswhether the change is made to the part itself, or if the change changesthe part to a different part. In these latter embodiments, user 301 mustmake a decision including, but not limited to, generating a newmanufacturing process plan 126, updating the first manufacturing processplan 126 with the new part, and rejecting the change.

In some embodiments, different parts, procedures, techniques, etc. arerequired to be performed by someone certified in the proper installationor procedures. In these embodiments, the engineering design 102 includesthese required certifications and MPM server 212 receives one or morecertifications of a mechanic to perform a process of the plurality ofprocesses. MPM server 212 compares the one or more certifications withthe certifications corresponding to the process to be performed. Whenthere is not a match based on the comparison, MPM server 212 generatesan alert.

In some embodiments, MPM server 212 autovalidates the MPP 126. In theseembodiments, MPM server 212 stores a first manufacturing process plan126 for the first configuration. MPM server 212 compares the pluralityof features 104 associated with the first engineering design 102 withthe first manufacturing process plan 126. MPM server 212 determines oneor more differences based on the comparison. MPM server 212 generates areport based on the one or more differences. MPM server 212 provides thereport to the user 301.

In some embodiments, MPM server 212 generates and stores a series oftemplates based on past engineering designs 102 and MPPs 126. Whendesigning and manufacturing multiple products of the same type, such asaircraft, many of the requirements and systems will be the same orsimilar between the products. It streamlines the design process and themanufacturing process to have previously prepared templates that a user301 can use. In these embodiments, MPM server 212 receives a pluralityof historical engineering designs. MPM server 212 receives a pluralityof historical manufacturing process plans associated with the pluralityof historical engineering designs. Then MPM server 212 generate aplurality of operation templates based on the plurality of historicalengineering designs and the plurality of historical manufacturingprocess plans. In addition many items in the engineering design 102 maybe the same and the process to install or manufacture would then be thesame as well. These items include, but are not limited to, a structure,such as a closest, or a commodity, such as an entertainment system. Thetemplate would then include the series of steps 170 (shown in FIG. 1)required to manufacture the closet and could then be dropped directlyinto engineering design 102 at the desired location. Other templates maybe generated based on the required order of operations from thehistorical MPPs. For example, if operations A, B, and C have to beperformed each time in that order, then MPM server 212 may put thosethree operations in a template together in that order.

In some embodiments, each time a change is made to the engineeringdesign 102 is associated with a new revision of the product. Forexample, if a new steering wheel is added to the product, then therevision of the product would go from A to B. However, many times thereare multiple minor changes to the manufacturing of the product, such asa new process is used to improve tensile strength of a bond. These arechange levels, and a revision might have multiple change levelsassociated with it. Some change levels might also be for backing outprevious change levels and effectively returning to a previous changelevel. In some further embodiments, when a new revision is made, it maybe desired that some or all of the change levels associated with thepervious revision be included. In these embodiments, MPM server 212stores a first revision manufacturing process plan 126 for the firstconfiguration including a revision number and a plurality ofmanufacturing change levels. MPM server 212 receives a request from auser 301 to generate a new revision of the manufacturing process 126plan based on a change to the first engineering design 102 and therequest includes a selection of manufacturing change level of theplurality of manufacturing change levels. MPM server 212 generates asecond revision manufacturing process plan 126 based the selectedmanufacturing change level of the first revision manufacturing processplan and the change.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 700 ofmanaging a manufacturing bill of materials 124 using the system 200shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure.Process 700 may be implemented by a computing device, for example MPMserver 212 (shown in FIG. 2).

In the example embodiment, MPM server 212 stores 705 an engineering billof materials 118 for a product to be assembled including a firstplurality of parts 116 (both shown in FIG. 1). MPM server 212 stores 710a manufacturing bill of materials 124 (shown in FIG. 1) for the productto be assembled including a second plurality of parts 116 and a status.MPM server 212 receives 715, from a user 301 (shown in FIG. 1), arequest to change the status of the manufacturing bill of materials 124.The status change is from a first status to a second status. Forexample, the change from the first to the second status is from notapproved to approved, from not released to released, or any other statuschange for the manufacturing bill of materials 124. For each of thefirst plurality of parts 116, MPM server 212 compares 720 the firstplurality of parts 116 with the second plurality of parts 116. MPMserver 212 determines 725 whether the first plurality of parts 116matches the second plurality of parts 116 based on the comparison. Ifthe determination is that the first plurality of parts 116 matches thesecond plurality of parts 116, MPM server 212 changes 730 the status ofthe manufacturing bill of materials 124 to approved. If thedetermination is that the first plurality of parts 116 does not matchthe second plurality of parts 116, MPM server 212 prevents 735 thestatus of the manufacturing bill of materials 124 from changing toapproved. In some embodiments, MPM server 212 generates a report andtransmits the report to a user 301 (shown in FIG. 1). The reportidentifies each difference between the first plurality of parts 116 andthe second plurality of parts 116.

In some manufacturing embodiments, work not be performed on the productunless it is associated with an operation 164 or a step 170 (both shownin FIG. 1) outlined in the MPP 126. However, situations arise where apart needs to be removed from the product. To be able to properlyinstruct a worker to remove the undesired part, MPM server 212temporarily adds the part to be removed to the MPP 126. In theseembodiments, MPM server 212 receives a temporary removal part from theuser 301. MPM server 212 adds the temporary removal part to themanufacturing bill of materials 124. MPM server 212 issues a work orderto remove the temporary removal part. The user 301 removes the temporaryremoval part from the product being assembled.

In some embodiments, the engineering bill of materials 118 includesmultiple instances of the same part. In these embodiments, MPM server212 stores a first instance number with the first part at a firstlocation in the product and stores a second instance number with thefirst part at a second location in the product.

In some embodiments, installing or producing different parts isdependent on having other parts or materials. These other parts ormaterials take time to manufacture or receive from a supplier, this timeis known as lead time. For example, part A 132 takes 20 days to procure,while part B 134 (both shown in FIG. 1) takes 50 days. These lead timesmay be calculate based on the engineering design 102, for example, whengenerating or approving the MPP 126. In these embodiments, MPM server212 determines a lead time for each part of the first plurality of parts116 based on the manufacturing bill of materials 124 and determines adate needed for each part of the plurality of parts 116 based on themanufacturing bill of materials 124 and the plurality of lead times. Thedate needed is based on when the corresponding part is needed inproduction of the product.

However, whenever a change is made to the engineering design 102, theselead times need to be recalculated and checked to see if any conflictsor bottlenecks occur. In these embodiments, MPM server 212 receives atleast one change to the engineering bill of materials 118. MPM server212 determines at least one conflict based on the plurality of datesneeded, the plurality of lead times, and the received at least onechange. MPM server 212 generates a lead time report based on at leastone conflict.

In some embodiments, multiple manufacturing lines are producingdifferent configurations of the product. For example, a client orderssix aircraft of configuration A. At a later time, but before all of theordered aircraft are delivered, the same client orders five moreaircraft of configuration B. Since different manufacturing lines produceaircraft at different speeds, it is potentially possible that aconfiguration A aircraft could be delivered after a configuration Baircraft. To alert the user 301 of the potential of this occurrence, MPMserver 212 receives information on a plurality of production linesconfigured to manufacture the product based on the manufacturing bill ofmaterials. MPM server 212 determines a production schedule for each ofthe plurality of production lines based on the manufacturing bill ofmaterials 124 and the received information. MPM server 212 receives asecond manufacturing bill of materials 124 for a second configuration ofthe product. MPM server 212 determines a second production schedule foreach of the plurality of production lines based on the secondmanufacturing bill of materials 124 and the received information. MPMserver 212 determines whether at least one product of the firstconfiguration will be completed after at least one product of the secondconfiguration based on the first plurality of production schedules andthe second plurality of production schedules. MPM server 212 generatesan alert if the determination is that at least one product of the firstconfiguration will be completed after at least one product of the secondconfiguration and provides the alert to the user 301. In someembodiments, MPM server 212 receives the second manufacturing bill ofmaterials after production has begun on the first configuration of theproduct.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 800 of usinga grid overlay with multiple versions of a product using system 200shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure.Process 800 may be implemented by a computing device, for example MPMserver 212 (shown in FIG. 2).

In the example embodiment, MPM server 212 stores 805 a first version ofa product and a second version of the product. The second versionextends the first version by a plug at a first location. The firstversion includes a first plurality of parts at a first plurality oflocations and a second plurality of parts 116 at a second plurality oflocations. The second version includes the first plurality of parts 116,the second plurality of parts, and a third plurality of parts associatedwith the plug. The first location is between the first plurality oflocations and the second plurality of locations.

MPM server 212 calculates 810 a first numbering system. Each of thefirst plurality of locations and the second plurality of locationsincludes a location number based on the first numbering system. MPMserver 212 calculates 815 a second numbering system for a thirdplurality of locations associated with the third plurality of parts. MPMserver 212 determines 820 a first grid overlay for the first version ofthe product based on the first numbering system. MPM server 212determines 825 a second grid overlay for the second version of theproduct based on the first numbering system and the second numberingsystem. MPM server 212 displays 830, to user (301 shown in FIG. 3), thesecond version of the product including the second grid overlay.

For example, the first version of the product is an aircraft 100′ long.The second version of the product is effectively the same aircraft butwith 2 more rows of seats making it 110′ long. The plug is placed afterrow 4 and refers to the two rows of seats that effectively move the restof the aircraft back from the nose of the aircraft. In the exampleembodiment, the first numbering system is based on the nose of the planeand is considered either the station line, the water line, or buttockline. The numbering starts at the nose of the aircraft and continues tothe tail of the aircraft. So the end of row 4 would be at number 40 andthe end of row 5 would be at number 45. In other embodiments, the firstnumbering system may start at the top of the product, the bottom of theproduct, the center of the product, or any other location appropriate tothe product itself. The second numbering system starts from the front ofthe plug where the front is oriented towards the nose of the plane. Ifthe plug is placed at the end of row 4, aka number 40, then thenumbering for the plug starts at number 40 and the numbering for therest of the aircraft pauses at that point. So the numbering for the endof the first row of seats in the plug would be 40+5, where 40 is thestart of the plug and 5 is the distance to the start of the plug. Afterthe second plug row and the end of the plug, the first numbering wouldcontinue with 41, 42 . . . . In this way the numbering system stays thesame for parts and procedures that are not necessary to the added plug.While the above is designated as first number+second number, othernotation methodologies are possible.

In some embodiments, three dimensional (3D) views of areas of theproduct are stored to instruct workers on how the assembled or partiallyassembled area should look. However, as plugs are inserted or changesare made that shift where the 3D view is referring to. To ensure thatthe 3D view stays relative to the parts to be installed, the 3D view isassociated with one of the parts in the view. When the part shifts, theview shifts with it. In these embodiments, MPM server 212 stores a threedimensional (3D) view of an area of the first version of the product.The area includes a second plurality of parts. MPM server 212 associatesthe 3D view with one part of the second plurality of parts included inthe 3D view. The location corresponding to the one part of a secondplurality of parts is assigned to the 3D view. MPM server 212 shifts the3D view based on the first numbering system when displaying the secondversion of the product to correspond with the associated one part.

In some embodiments, a closer view of a part or installation to beinstalled in the product is desired. In these embodiments, a user isable to zoom-in to the part from an overhead view of the entire product.In some embodiments, the zoom-in view includes the location of the partusing the station line, the water line, and/or buttock line. In theseembodiments, MPM server 212 displays a pre-defined view of the product.For example, the pre-defined view is a top view, a side view, a bottomview, or any other pre-defined view capable of displaying the part. MPMserver 212 receives, from the user 301, a request to zoom-in on a viewof an installation. MPM server 212 displays a zoom-in view of theinstallation including one or more numbers associated with the firstnumbering system.

In some embodiments, the user 301 is able to toggle the display of thegrid overlay on and off.

In some embodiments, multiple parts with the same part number may beinstalled in the product. While each part may have an instance number asdescribed above, the actual part number for the part stays the same toensure that the correct part is installed. For example, aisle seats onthe left side of the aircraft all have the same part number, but eachone is installed at a different position in the plane. However, the partnumber stays the same for each. Each part is differentiated by aninstance number (described above) or the location where the part isinstalled based on the first or second numbering system.

FIG. 9 is a diagram 900 of components of one or more example computingdevices that may be used in the system 200 shown in FIG. 2. In someembodiments, computing device 910 is similar to MPM server 212 (shown inFIG. 2). Database 920 may be coupled with several separate componentswithin computing device 910, which perform specific tasks. In thisembodiment, database 920 includes engineering designs 922, such asengineering design 102 (shown in FIG. 1), manufacturing process plans924, such as MPP 126 (shown in FIG. 1), engineering bills of materials926, such as EBOM 118 (shown in FIG. 1), and manufacturing bills ofmaterials 928, such as MBOM 124 (shown in FIG. 1). In some embodiments,database 920 is similar to database 220 (shown in FIG. 2).

Computing device 910 includes the database 920, as well as data storagedevices 930. Computing device 910 also includes a communicationcomponent 935 for receiving 505 a first engineering design (shown inFIG. 5), receiving 510 a first manufacturing process plan (shown in FIG.5), receiving 525 a notification (shown in FIG. 5), receiving 605 afirst engineering design (shown in FIG. 6), and receiving 715 a userrequest (shown in FIG. 7). Computing device 910 also includes acomparing component 940 for comparing 515 the plurality of operations(shown in FIG. 5), and comparing 720 the first plurality of parts (shownin FIG. 7). Computer device 910 further includes an associatingcomponent 945 for associating 520 each requirement (shown in FIG. 5). Adetermining component 950 is also included for determining 610 aplurality of parts (shown in FIG. 6), determining 725 whether the firstplurality of parts (shown in FIG. 7), determining 820 a first gridoverlay, and determining 825 a second grid overlay (both shown in FIG.8). Computing device 910 further includes a generating component 955 forgenerating 615 a manufacturing bill of materials (shown in FIG. 6).Moreover, a calculating component 960 is included for calculating 810 afirst number system and calculating 815 a second number system (bothshown in FIG. 8). In addition a display component 965 is included fordisplaying 830 the second version (shown in FIG. 8). A processingcomponent 970 assists with execution of computer-executable instructionsassociated with the system.

The systems and processes are not limited to the specific embodimentsdescribed herein. In addition, components of each system and eachprocess can be practiced independent and separate from other componentsand processes described herein. Each component and process also can beused in combination with other assembly packages and processes.

Having described aspects of the disclosure in detail, it will beapparent that modifications and variations are possible withoutdeparting from the scope of aspects of the disclosure as defined in theappended claims. As various changes could be made in the aboveconstructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope ofaspects of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained inthe above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall beinterpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

While the disclosure has been described in terms of various specificembodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosurecan be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of theclaims.

As used herein, the term “non-transitory computer-readable media” isintended to be representative of any tangible computer-based deviceimplemented in any method or technology for short-term and long-termstorage of information, such as, computer-readable instructions, datastructures, program modules and sub-modules, or other data in anydevice. Therefore, the methods described herein may be encoded asexecutable instructions embodied in a tangible, non-transitory, computerreadable medium, including, without limitation, a storage device and/ora memory device. Such instructions, when executed by a processor, causethe processor to perform at least a portion of the methods describedherein. Moreover, as used herein, the term “non-transitorycomputer-readable media” includes all tangible, computer-readable media,including, without limitation, non-transitory computer storage devices,including, without limitation, volatile and nonvolatile media, andremovable and non-removable media such as a firmware, physical andvirtual storage, CD-ROMs, DVDs, and any other digital source such as anetwork or the Internet, as well as yet to be developed digital means,with the sole exception being a transitory, propagating signal.

This written description uses examples to disclose variousimplementations, including the best mode, and also to enable any personskilled in the art to practice the various implementations, includingmaking and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporatedmethods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by theclaims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled inthe art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of theclaims if they have structural elements that do not differ from theliteral language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structuralelements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of theclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A manufacturing process management (MPM) computerdevice comprising a processor and at least one memory device, whereinsaid processor is in communication with said at least one memory device,said MPM computer device configured to: store, with said at least onememory device, a first version of a product and a second version of theproduct, wherein the second version extends the first version by a plugat a first location, wherein the first version includes a firstplurality of parts at a first plurality of locations and a secondplurality of parts at a second plurality of locations, and wherein thesecond version includes the first plurality of parts, the secondplurality of parts, and a third plurality of parts associated with theplug, wherein the first location is between the first plurality oflocations and the second plurality of locations; calculate, by said MPMcomputer device, a first numbering system, wherein each of the firstplurality of locations and the second plurality of locations includes alocation number based on the first numbering system; calculate, by saidMPM computer device, a second numbering system for a third plurality oflocations associated with the third plurality of parts; determine, bysaid MPM computer device, a first grid overlay for the first version ofthe product based on the first numbering system; determine, by said MPMcomputer device, a second grid overlay for the second version of theproduct based on the first numbering system and the second numberingsystem; and transmit, from said MPM computer device to a client computerdevice associated with a user, instructions to display, to the user viaa display device, the second version of the product including the secondgrid overlay.
 2. The MPM computer device in accordance with claim 1further configured to: store a three dimensional (3D) view of an area ofthe first version of the product; associate the 3D view with one part ofthe second plurality of parts included in the 3D view, wherein thelocation corresponding to the one part of the second plurality of partsis assigned to the 3D view; and shift the 3D view based on the firstnumbering system when displaying the second version of the product tocorrespond with the associated one part.
 3. The MPM computer device inaccordance with claim 1 further configured to: display a pre-definedview of the product; receive, from the user, a request to zoom-in on aview of an installation; and display a zoom-in view of the installationincluding one or more numbers associated with the first numberingsystem.
 4. The MPM computer device in accordance with claim 1 furtherconfigured to: receive an input from the user; and toggle displaying thefirst grid overlay or the second grid overlay based on the user input.5. The MPM computer device in accordance with claim 1, wherein one partof the first plurality of parts is substantially the same as one part ofthe second plurality of parts, and wherein the MPM computer device isconfigured to: associate a single part number with the one part of thefirst plurality of parts and the one part of the second plurality ofparts; associate a first part location with the one part of the firstplurality of parts, wherein the first part location is based on thefirst numbering system and the first plurality of locations; andassociate a second part location with the one part of the secondplurality of parts, wherein the second part location is based on thefirst numbering system and the second plurality of locations.
 6. The MPMcomputer device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the product is anaircraft.
 7. The MPM computer device in accordance with claim 6, whereinthe first numbering system is one of a station line, a water line, and abuttock line.
 8. The MPM computer device in accordance with claim 6,wherein the plug extends the aircraft by one or more rows of seats. 9.The MPM computer device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the productincludes a front end, a top, and a bottom, and wherein the firstnumbering system is in relation to a reference point at the front end ofthe product.
 10. The MPM computer device in accordance with claim 9,wherein the plug includes a plug front end which is oriented based onthe front end of the product, and wherein the second numbering system isbased on the plug front end.
 11. The MPM computer device in accordancewith claim 10, wherein the second numbering system is only associatedwith the plug and starts at zero at the plug front end.
 12. The MPMcomputer device in accordance with claim 10, wherein the first numberingsystem pauses at the plug front end and restarts after the plug.
 13. Acomputer implemented method for displaying differences between versionsof a product, said method implemented using a manufacturing processmanagement (MPM) computer device in communication with a memory, saidmethod comprising: storing, in the memory, a first version of a productand a second version of the product, wherein the second version extendsthe first version by a plug at a first location, wherein the firstversion includes a first plurality of parts at a first plurality oflocations and a second plurality of parts at a second plurality oflocations, and wherein the second version includes the first pluralityof parts, the second plurality of parts, and a third plurality of partsassociated with the plug, wherein the first location is between thefirst plurality of locations and the second plurality of locations;calculating, by the MPM computer device, a first numbering system,wherein each of the first plurality of locations and the secondplurality of locations includes a location number based on the firstnumbering system; calculating, by the MPM computer device, a secondnumbering system for a third plurality of locations associated with thethird plurality of parts; determining, by the MPM computer device, afirst grid overlay for the first version of the product based on thefirst numbering system; determining, by the MPM computer device, asecond grid overlay for the second version of the product based on thefirst numbering system and the second numbering system; andtransmitting, from the MPM computer device to a client computer deviceassociated with a user, instructions to display, to the user via adisplay device, the second version of the product including the secondgrid overlay.
 14. The method in accordance with claim 13 furthercomprising: storing a three dimensional (3D) view of an area of thefirst version of the product; associating the 3D view with one part ofthe second plurality of parts included in the 3D view, wherein thelocation corresponding to the one part of the second plurality of partsis assigned to the 3D view; and shifting the 3D view based on the firstnumbering system when displaying the second version of the product tocorrespond with the associated one part.
 15. The method in accordancewith claim 13 further comprising: displaying a pre-defined view of theproduct; receiving, from the user, a request of a zoom-in of a view ofan installation; and displaying a zoom in view of the installationincluding one or more numbers associated with the first numberingsystem.
 16. The method in accordance with claim 13 further comprising:receiving an input from the user; and toggling display the first gridoverlay or the second grid overlay based on the user input.
 17. Themethod in accordance with claim 13, wherein one part of the firstplurality of parts is substantially the same as one part of the secondplurality of parts, and said method further comprising: associating asingle part number with the one part of the first plurality of parts andone part of the second plurality of parts; associating a first partlocation with the one part of the first plurality of parts, wherein thefirst part location is based on the first numbering system and the firstplurality of locations; and associating a second part location with theone part of the second plurality of parts, wherein the second partlocation is based on the first numbering system and the second pluralityof locations.
 18. At least one non-transitory computer-readable storagemedia having computer-executable instructions embodied thereon, whereinwhen executed by manufacturing process management computer device havingat least one processor coupled to at least one memory device, thecomputer-executable instructions cause the processor to: store, in theat least one memory device, a first version of a product and a secondversion of the product, wherein the second version extends the firstversion by a plug at a first location, wherein the first versionincludes a first plurality of parts at a first plurality of locationsand a second plurality of parts at a second plurality of locations, andwherein the second version includes the first plurality of parts, thesecond plurality of parts, and a third plurality of parts associatedwith the plug, wherein the first location is between the first pluralityof locations and the second plurality of locations; calculate, by theprocessor, a first numbering system, wherein each of the first pluralityof locations and the second plurality of locations includes a locationnumber based on the first numbering system; calculate, by the processor,a second numbering system for a third plurality of locations associatedwith the third plurality of parts; determine, by the processor, a firstgrid overlay for the first version of the product based on the firstnumbering system; determine, by the processor, a second grid overlay forthe second version of the product based on the first numbering systemand the second numbering system; and transmit, from processor to aclient computer device associated with a user, instructions to display,to the user via a display device, the second version of the productincluding the second grid overlay.
 19. The computer-readable storagemedium of claim 18, wherein the computer-executable instructions furthercause the processor to: store a three dimensional (3D) view of an areaof the first version of the product; associate the 3D view with one partof the second plurality of parts included in the 3D view, wherein thelocation corresponding to the one part of the second plurality of partsis assigned to the 3D view; and shift the 3D view based on the firstnumbering system when displaying the second version of the product tocorrespond with the associated one part.
 20. The computer-readablestorage medium of claim 18, wherein one part of the first plurality ofparts is substantially the same as one part of the second plurality ofparts, and wherein the computer-executable instructions further causethe processor to: associate a single part number with the one part ofthe first plurality of parts and one part of the second plurality ofparts; associate a first part location with the one part of the firstplurality of parts, wherein the first part location is based on thefirst numbering system and the first plurality of locations; andassociate a second part location with the one part of the secondplurality of parts, wherein the second part location is based on thefirst numbering system and the second plurality of locations.